The introduction of N'Dama cattle as work animals in palm plantations in 1979 at the Cameroon Palm Company (SOCAPALM) resulted in the formation of an ox-draught unit in 1985. Field results have confirmed the potential of draught animal power in gathering palm bunches. A comparative analysis of three forms of palm bunch transport - mechanical dumpers, hand-barrows and animal-drawn carts - suggests that the most viable option is to use animal power: a pair of oxen and a single driver/loader. This option could help overcome the shortage of labour for harvesting, reduce the very heavy manual workload and significantly reduce the need for fuel and spare parts, thus saving much foreign currency.
